A quick 8 step checklist we use to ensure that a company’s computer network, and the data for that business, is safe and secure from disruption:

 

  1. A written recovery plan.Simply thinking through what needs to happen when things go south, and documenting it all IN ADVANCE, can go a long way toward getting your network back up and running quickly if it gets hacked, impacted by natural disaster or compromised by human error.

 

  1. Automate your data backups.THE #1 cause of data loss is human error. If your backup system depends on a human being always doing something right, it’s a recipe for disaster. Automate your backups wherever possible so they run like clockwork.

 

  1. Have redundant off-site backups.On-site backups are a good first step, but if they get flooded, burned or hacked along with your server, you’re out of luck. ALWAYS maintain a recent copy of your data off-site.

 

  1. System images are critical.Storing your data off-site is a good first step. But if your system is compromised, the software and architecture that handles all that data MUST be restored for it to be useful. Imaging your server creates a replica of the original, saving you an enormous amount of time and energy in getting your network back in gear, should the need arise. Without it, you risk losing all your preferences, configurations, favorites and more.

 

  1. Maintain an up-to-date network “blueprint.”To rebuild all or part of your network, you’ll need a blueprint of the software, data, systems and hardware that comprise your company’s network. It could save you a huge amount of time and money in the event your network needs to be restored.

 

  1. Don’t ignore routine maintenance.While fires, flooding and other natural disasters are always a risk, it’s ever more likely that you’ll have downtime due to a software or hardware glitch or cyber-attack. That’s why it’s critical to keep your network patched, secure and up-to-date. Deteriorating hardware and corrupted software can wipe you out. Replace and update them as needed to steer clear of this threat.

    8. Test, Test, Test! If you’re going to go to the trouble of setting up a plan, at least make sure it works! An IT professional can check                     monthly to make sure your systems work properly and your data is secure. After all, the worst time to test your parachute is               AFTERyou   jump out of the plane.

 

Be certain that you have all 8 steps fully covered with our FREE Disaster Recovery Assesment